Dogs might get ‘sepanx’ when quarantine ends, experts say

Experts warned many dog owners about the possible effects of the end of the lockdown to their pets

Dog might get extreme separation anxiety after the quarantine period, especially when they are already accustomed to the presence of their human friends

Canine experts also shared how owners can prepare their dogs to the “back to normal” situation and how they can probably deal with their dogs “sepanx” when it occurs

As the end of the quarantine period comes in light, there should be someone and something that many pet owners should look out for — well, their dogs and their emotions.

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Canine experts started to warn many pet owners about the possible effects of the end of the lockdown to their pets.

“With such an overload of quality time with their families, dogs are building up a huge reservoir of over-dependency which could see them suffer when mums and dads suddenly return to work and the children go back to school,” said animal psychology expert Roger Mugford in his interview with the Sunday Times.

A sudden change in their routine could cause stress and anxiety to animals, particularly to dogs, according to Dr. Karen Sueda, a veterinary behaviorist at VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital.

“Dogs thrive on consistency and predictability, as we all do, so anytime there’s an abrupt change, it can cause stress,” she said.

According to them, dogs might be able to develop extreme separation anxiety when quarantine period ends as these animals might already get accustomed to the presence of their human friends.

They said dog owners can prepare their pets for the “back to normal” setup as early as now in order to prevent any unwanted situation.

Image via Pixabay

Dr. Mugford suggested that owners should practice a short period of self-isolation for their dogs several times a day. He said owners should try to lock their pets in a room inside the house for at least 30 minutes in order to let them deal with loneliness.

Sueda also suggested to provide dogs with their “alone time.” “You have your space, and they have theirs.” she said.

She also said it is important for owners to monitor their dog’s behavior. Setting up a webcam can help in order to see their pet’s activities or know how their pets might be feeling while the owners are away.